Truckers protest seizure of vehicles, warn of economic paralysis ahead of long march

Pakistan’s goods transport sector, which moves goods for millions of people daily, says the government’s recent confiscation of trucks and containers has paralysed the economy ahead of a scheduled long march on Sept 27. Leaders of the All Pakistan Good Transport Owners Association and other groups listed grievances such as excessive taxes, inadequate road infrastructure, complicated HTV licensing and alleged police and regional transport authority misconduct.

Police and motorway officials rejected most accusations, pointing to a licensing framework under the 2014 NHMP Rules and reporting more than 7 million traffic violations by goods vehicles since the start of 2026, with a large share involving axle-load limits. The National Highways Authority highlighted a shortfall in maintenance funds despite generating substantial toll revenue, noting that a significant portion of its budget is allocated to Balochistan where toll collections are low. Transport leaders called for a dedicated ministry for transportation and recognition of the sector as a full-fledged industry.